1.
The most valuable method for understanding demographic changes in America is the
Correct Answer
E. Census.
Explanation
The census is the most valuable method for understanding demographic changes in America because it provides a comprehensive and accurate count of the population. It collects data on various demographic factors such as age, race, ethnicity, and household composition, which helps in analyzing population trends and making informed decisions regarding resource allocation, policy development, and planning. The census is conducted every 10 years and provides a detailed snapshot of the population, making it an essential tool for understanding demographic changes in America.
2.
Public opinion is defined in the text as
Correct Answer
B. The distribution of the population's beliefs about politics and policy.
Explanation
Public opinion is defined in the text as the distribution of the population's beliefs about politics and policy. This means that public opinion refers to the collective views and perspectives of the general public on political issues and government policies. It encompasses the range of opinions held by different individuals within the population, reflecting the diversity of viewpoints and attitudes towards political matters.
3.
Demographic changes in the United States population could translate to political consequences through the process of
Correct Answer
D. Reapportionment.
Explanation
Demographic changes in the United States population can have political consequences through the process of reapportionment. Reapportionment refers to the redistribution of seats in the House of Representatives based on changes in population. As population shifts occur, some states may gain or lose seats, which can impact their political power and representation in Congress. This process is important for maintaining fair representation and ensuring that each state's population is accurately reflected in the political system. Political assimilation, political socialization, and political acculturation are not directly related to the redistribution of seats in the House of Representatives.
4.
The _________ refers to the emergence of a non-Caucasian majority, as compared with a White, generally Anglo-Saxon majority.
Correct Answer
A. Minority majority
Explanation
The term "minority majority" refers to the situation where a non-Caucasian population becomes the majority in a society, replacing the previous White, generally Anglo-Saxon majority. This phenomenon is often associated with demographic shifts and changes in the racial and ethnic composition of a population. It signifies a significant shift in power dynamics, cultural norms, and societal structures, as the previously dominant group becomes the minority.
5.
Approximately what percentage of Whites live below the poverty line?
Correct Answer
C. Ten
Explanation
The answer "Ten" suggests that approximately 10% of Whites live below the poverty line. This indicates that a relatively small portion of the White population is experiencing poverty.
6.
The largest racial-ethnic minority group in the United States is
Correct Answer
C. Hispanics.
Explanation
Hispanics are the largest racial-ethnic minority group in the United States. This is based on population statistics and demographic data, which show that Hispanics make up a significant portion of the U.S. population. This group includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, who may have ancestry from countries such as Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and others. The term "Hispanic" encompasses a diverse range of cultures and backgrounds, contributing to its larger representation in the U.S. population compared to other racial-ethnic minority groups.
7.
The most recent wave of immigration since World War II has consisted primarily of
Correct Answer
D. Hispanics and Asians.
Explanation
The most recent wave of immigration since World War II has consisted primarily of Hispanics and Asians. This can be attributed to various factors such as changes in immigration policies, economic opportunities, and political instability in their home countries. Additionally, the increasing globalization and interconnectedness of the world have made it easier for people from these regions to migrate to other countries. As a result, there has been a significant increase in the number of immigrants from Hispanic and Asian countries in recent years.
8.
The _______ Act required that as of 1987, employers document the citizenship or legal immigrant status of their employees, or face substantial crime penalties for failing to do so.
Correct Answer
D. Simpson-Mazzoli
Explanation
The correct answer is Simpson-Mazzoli. The Simpson-Mazzoli Act, also known as the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, required employers to verify the legal status of their employees and prohibited the hiring of undocumented immigrants. It established penalties for employers who knowingly hired undocumented workers and provided a pathway to legalization for certain undocumented immigrants who had been living in the United States since before 1982. The act aimed to address the issue of illegal immigration and enforce immigration laws in the workplace.
9.
Between 1990 and 2000,
Correct Answer
E. The Sunbelt continued to experience rapid population growth.
Explanation
During the period between 1990 and 2000, the Sunbelt region in the United States continued to experience rapid population growth. This can be inferred from the fact that the other options mention population loss or slower growth in different regions of the country. The Sunbelt, which includes states in the southern and southwestern parts of the country, has been known for its warm climate and economic opportunities, attracting people to move and settle there.
10.
Reapportionment occurs after every census to reallocate seats in
Correct Answer
C. The House of Representatives.
Explanation
Reapportionment occurs after every census to reallocate seats in the House of Representatives. This process is necessary to ensure that each state is represented fairly based on its population. The census determines the population of each state, and then the seats in the House are redistributed accordingly. This helps to maintain the principle of "one person, one vote" and ensures that the House accurately reflects the changing demographics of the country.
11.
Reapportionment
Correct Answer
D. Can dramatically shift political power between the regions.
Explanation
Reapportionment refers to the redistribution of seats in a legislative body, based on changes in population. This process can have a significant impact on the distribution of political power between different regions. By reallocating seats, reapportionment can potentially give more representation and influence to certain areas, while diminishing the power of others. This can lead to a shift in political dynamics and the balance of power between regions.
12.
The process through which an individual acquires his or her particular political orientations, including his or her knowledge, feelings, and evaluations regarding his or her political world, is known as
Correct Answer
D. Political socialization.
Explanation
Political socialization refers to the process by which individuals develop their political attitudes, beliefs, and values. It involves acquiring knowledge about politics, forming opinions and evaluations about political issues, and developing a sense of political identity. This process is influenced by various factors such as family, education, peer groups, media, and social institutions. Demography refers to the study of population characteristics, while political indoctrination refers to the deliberate and systematic inculcation of political beliefs. Political orientation and political ideology are related concepts, but they do not encompass the entire process of acquiring political orientations.
13.
Which of the following statements is TRUE?
Correct Answer
E. Both A and B
Explanation
Both statement A and B are true. Statement A states that average school-age children spend more time each week watching TV than they spend at school. This is supported by research that shows children spend a significant amount of time watching television. Statement B states that as children get older, television displaces parents as the chief source of information. This is also supported by research that shows as children grow older, they rely more on television for information rather than their parents. Therefore, both statements A and B are true.
14.
As one becomes more socialized with age, one's political orientations
Correct Answer
A. Grow firmer.
Explanation
As individuals become more socialized with age, they tend to develop a deeper understanding of their political beliefs and values. This increased socialization allows them to engage in more discussions and interactions with others, leading to a solidification of their political orientations. As they gain more life experiences and knowledge, they become more confident in their beliefs and are less likely to change or waver in their political stance. Therefore, their political orientations grow firmer with age.
15.
Scientific public opinion polling was first begun in 1932 by
Correct Answer
A. George Gallup.
Explanation
George Gallup is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as the pioneer of scientific public opinion polling. In 1932, he founded the American Institute of Public Opinion, which later became the Gallup Organization. Gallup's innovative polling techniques and methodologies revolutionized the field of public opinion research, making it more reliable and accurate. His work laid the foundation for modern polling practices and his contributions continue to be influential in the field today.
16.
Because it would be prohibitively expensive to ask every citizen his or her opinion on a whole range of issues, polls rely on what is called a(n) _________ of the population.
Correct Answer
A. Sample
Explanation
Polls are conducted to gather opinions from a large population, but it would be impractical and costly to ask every citizen. Instead, polls rely on a representative subset of the population, known as a sample. This sample is carefully selected to ensure that it accurately represents the larger population, allowing researchers to make inferences and draw conclusions about the opinions of the entire population based on the responses of the sample.
17.
The key to the accuracy of public opinion polls is
Correct Answer
C. Random sampling.
Explanation
Random sampling is the correct answer because it is a method used in public opinion polls to ensure accuracy. Random sampling involves selecting a representative sample from the population, where each individual has an equal chance of being included. This helps to minimize bias and increase the likelihood that the sample accurately reflects the opinions of the entire population. By using random sampling, public opinion polls can provide a more accurate representation of the views and attitudes of the general public.
18.
Sampling error describes
Correct Answer
E. How close a sample estimate is to the real population value.
Explanation
Sampling error refers to the discrepancy or difference between the sample estimate and the actual population value. It measures how accurately the sample estimate represents the true value of the entire population being studied. A smaller sampling error indicates that the sample estimate is more reliable and closer to the real population value, while a larger sampling error suggests that the sample estimate may not be as accurate or representative of the population.
19.
Random sampling in public opinion polling operates on the principle that
Correct Answer
B. Everyone should have an equal probability of being selected.
Explanation
Random sampling in public opinion polling operates on the principle that everyone should have an equal probability of being selected. This means that each individual in the population being studied has an equal chance of being included in the sample. By ensuring equal probability of selection, the sample is more likely to be representative of the larger population, leading to greater accuracy in the poll results. This principle helps to minimize bias and ensure that the sample is not skewed towards any particular group or characteristic.
20.
The 1936 Literary Digest poll underestimated the vote for President Franklin Roosevelt by 19 percent because
Correct Answer
A. The sample was drawn from telepHone books and motor vehicle records.
Explanation
The correct answer is that the sample was drawn from telephone books and motor vehicle records. This means that the poll only included individuals who owned telephones or vehicles, which would have excluded a large portion of the population. As a result, the poll would not have accurately represented the voting preferences of the entire population, leading to an underestimation of the vote for President Franklin Roosevelt.
21.
A relatively small proportion of people who are chosen as representative of the whole is called a(n)
Correct Answer
C. Sample.
Explanation
A relatively small proportion of people who are chosen as representative of the whole is called a sample. This refers to a subset of individuals selected from a larger population to gather information or data. A sample is used to make inferences or draw conclusions about the entire population based on the characteristics observed in the selected individuals.
22.
Public opinion polls are only estimates because
Correct Answer
D. All surveys have sampling error.
Explanation
All surveys have sampling error. This means that no matter how carefully a survey is conducted, there will always be some level of error or uncertainty in the results due to the fact that the sample of people surveyed may not perfectly represent the entire population. Sampling error is inherent in any survey methodology and cannot be completely eliminated. Therefore, public opinion polls can only provide estimates rather than definitive or exact measurements of public opinion.
23.
Concerns about reliance of pollsters on telephone surveys have recently been caused by
Correct Answer
B. Increased use of cell pHones.
Explanation
The concerns about reliance of pollsters on telephone surveys have recently been caused by the increased use of cell phones. With the rise in cell phone usage, many people no longer have landline phones, making it difficult for pollsters to reach a representative sample of the population. This has led to concerns about the accuracy and reliability of telephone surveys, as they may not accurately reflect the views and opinions of the entire population.
24.
The procedure for conducting _______ includes randomly selecting voting places around the country and asking every tenth person how they voted.
Correct Answer
B. An exit poll
Explanation
An exit poll is a procedure for conducting surveys during an election to gather information about how people voted. In this method, voting places are randomly selected across the country, and every tenth person is asked about their voting preference. This allows pollsters to estimate the overall voting patterns and make predictions about the election results. It is a useful tool for understanding voter behavior and trends.
25.
A political ideology is
Correct Answer
E. A coherent set of values and beliefs about public policy.
Explanation
The correct answer is a coherent set of values and beliefs about public policy. This option best describes a political ideology as it refers to a system of beliefs and values that guide a person's understanding and approach to public policy issues. It encompasses a comprehensive and consistent set of ideas and principles that shape one's political views and actions.
26.
Which of the following statements is FALSE?
Correct Answer
B. Liberals are more likely to favor military intervention around the globe; conservatives are less willing to commit troops to action.
Explanation
The given statement is false because it states that liberals are more likely to favor military intervention around the globe, while conservatives are less willing to commit troops to action. In reality, the opposite is true. Conservatives are generally more supportive of military intervention and are more willing to commit troops to action, while liberals tend to be more cautious and less supportive of military intervention.
27.
When people are asked about their ideology, an equal number answer conservative and __________.
Correct Answer
B. Moderate
Explanation
When people are asked about their ideology, an equal number answer conservative and moderate. This suggests that there is a significant portion of the population that falls in the middle ground between conservative and liberal ideologies. These individuals may hold some conservative views and some liberal views, making them moderate in their overall ideology. This finding highlights the diversity of perspectives within society and the existence of a moderate political stance.
28.
Conservatives would tend to favor each of the following EXCEPT
Correct Answer
D. Affirmative action.
Explanation
Conservatives generally prioritize limited government intervention and believe in individual merit and personal responsibility. They tend to favor free-market solutions and low taxes to stimulate economic growth. Additionally, conservatives typically support the right to life and increased military spending for national security. However, they often oppose affirmative action policies, as they believe in equal opportunity rather than preferential treatment based on race or gender.
29.
What is central to the ideology of the Republican Party?
Correct Answer
C. The American government has become too wide ranging.
Explanation
The correct answer is "The American government has become too wide ranging." This answer aligns with the ideology of the Republican Party, which generally advocates for limited government intervention and a smaller role for the federal government. Republicans often argue that the government has expanded too much and that it should be scaled back to allow for more individual freedoms and less government control.
30.
The regular pattern by which women are more likely to support Democratic candidates than are men is known as
Correct Answer
D. The gender gap.
Explanation
The regular pattern by which women are more likely to support Democratic candidates than men is known as the gender gap. This term refers to the consistent difference in political preferences and voting behavior between men and women. It highlights the tendency for women to lean towards Democratic candidates and policies, while men tend to support Republican candidates and policies. The gender gap is a significant factor in understanding electoral outcomes and shaping political strategies.
31.
Which of the following statements regarding religions and ideology is FALSE?
Correct Answer
A. Most Jews tend to be more conservative than liberal.
Explanation
The statement that most Jews tend to be more conservative than liberal is false. This is because studies have shown that the majority of Jews in the United States tend to lean more towards liberal ideologies and vote for Democratic candidates. While there may be some conservative Jews, the overall trend is towards liberalism.
32.
Which of these was NOT a part of the Reagan White House's strategies for news management?
Correct Answer
A. Allow the press unlimited access to the president.
Explanation
The Reagan White House's strategies for news management included planning ahead, repeating the same messages many times, speaking in one voice, and staying on the offensive. However, allowing the press unlimited access to the president was not a part of their strategies. This suggests that the Reagan administration aimed to control the narrative and limit the press's ability to freely interact with the president, potentially to maintain a more controlled and consistent message to the public.
33.
The first president to manipulate media politics with many press conferences and fireside chats successfully was
Correct Answer
A. Franklin Roosevelt
Explanation
Franklin Roosevelt was the first president to manipulate media politics successfully through press conferences and fireside chats. He effectively utilized these platforms to communicate directly with the American people and shape public opinion. Roosevelt's press conferences allowed him to control the narrative and address important issues, while his fireside chats created a sense of personal connection and reassurance during times of crisis. This strategic use of media helped Roosevelt maintain popular support and effectively govern during his presidency.
34.
Which president held on thousand press conferences, far more than any other?
Correct Answer
C. Franklin Roosevelt
Explanation
Franklin Roosevelt held one thousand press conferences, which is significantly more than any other president listed. This suggests that he was highly engaged with the media and placed a strong emphasis on communication with the public. This level of accessibility and transparency likely contributed to his popularity and effectiveness as a leader.
35.
One president who was particularly successful in playing to the media was
Correct Answer
B. Ronald Reagan
Explanation
Ronald Reagan was particularly successful in playing to the media because he was a skilled communicator and actor. He had a charismatic personality and was able to connect with the American people through his speeches and press conferences. Reagan understood the power of the media and utilized it to his advantage, effectively using television and radio to convey his messages and policies. He was known for his ability to deliver memorable one-liners and soundbites that resonated with the public. Reagan's media savvy played a significant role in shaping his image as a strong and optimistic leader, making him one of the most effective presidents in utilizing the media to his advantage.
36.
The cozy relationship between politicians and the press in the twentieth century lasted until
Correct Answer
C. The Vietnam War and Watergate.
Explanation
The cozy relationship between politicians and the press in the twentieth century lasted until the Vietnam War and Watergate. These two events had a significant impact on public trust towards the government and the media. The Vietnam War was highly controversial and led to widespread protests, causing a shift in public opinion and skepticism towards political leaders. Additionally, the Watergate scandal exposed corruption within the government and highlighted the need for investigative journalism. These events marked a turning point in the relationship between politicians and the press, leading to increased scrutiny and a more adversarial approach in reporting.
37.
The use of detective-like reporting methods to unearth scandals is known as
Correct Answer
E. Investigative journalism.
Explanation
Investigative journalism refers to the practice of using detective-like reporting methods to uncover scandals and expose wrongdoing. This type of journalism involves in-depth research, interviews, and analysis to provide the public with in-depth and accurate information. It aims to hold those in power accountable and bring important issues to light. Unlike yellow journalism, which focuses on sensationalism and exaggeration, investigative journalism prioritizes factual accuracy and ethical reporting. Print journalism, on the other hand, is a broad term that encompasses all forms of journalism published in print, including investigative journalism. Trial balloons are a different concept altogether, referring to the deliberate release of information to gauge public reaction.
38.
Today's news people work in an environment of ________ toward government.
Correct Answer
D. Cynicism
Explanation
The correct answer is "cynicism". The word "cynicism" refers to a general distrust or skepticism towards the government. This suggests that today's news people work in an environment characterized by a lack of trust or belief in the government.
39.
A majority of present day journalists believe that the most important thing that the media do or try to do is
Correct Answer
D. Investigate claims made by the government.
Explanation
Present-day journalists believe that the most important thing that the media do or try to do is to investigate claims made by the government. This is because journalists play a crucial role in holding the government accountable and ensuring transparency. Investigating government claims helps in uncovering the truth, exposing any potential misinformation or corruption, and keeping the public informed about the actions and decisions of the government. By doing so, journalists contribute to the functioning of a healthy democracy and help in maintaining trust between the government and the public.
40.
"Yellow journalism" refers to a style of reporting that
Correct Answer
D. Focuses on violence, corruption, wars, and gossip, often without regard for the truth.
Explanation
"Yellow journalism" refers to a style of reporting that focuses on violence, corruption, wars, and gossip, often without regard for the truth. This type of reporting sensationalizes stories and prioritizes attracting readership or viewership over factual accuracy. It tends to exaggerate or fabricate information to generate attention and increase profits. By disregarding the truth and prioritizing sensationalism, yellow journalism can mislead the public and undermine the integrity of journalism as a whole.
41.
The first daily newspaper in America was
Correct Answer
E. Printed in pHiladelpHia in 1783.
Explanation
The correct answer is "printed in Philadelphia in 1783." This answer is supported by the fact that the question asks for the first daily newspaper in America, and the option "printed in Philadelphia in 1783" is the only one that mentions a specific newspaper and year. The other options either mention newspapers that were not daily or do not provide a specific year. Therefore, the option "printed in Philadelphia in 1783" is the most accurate answer to the question.
42.
What differentiates American media from its counterparts in other democracies?
Correct Answer
A. American media is totally dependent on advertising revenues to keep business going.
Explanation
American media being totally dependent on advertising revenues to keep business going is what differentiates it from its counterparts in other democracies. This means that American media relies heavily on advertisements for financial support, which can potentially influence the content and priorities of news coverage. In contrast, media in other democracies may have alternative sources of funding, such as government ownership or public subsidies, which can affect their independence and editorial decisions.
43.
The nation's most influential newspaper and its unofficial "newspaper of record" is
Correct Answer
A. The New York Times
Explanation
The New York Times is considered the nation's most influential newspaper and its unofficial "newspaper of record" because of its long-standing reputation for delivering high-quality journalism and in-depth reporting. It has a wide readership and is known for its investigative journalism, comprehensive coverage of national and international news, and influential editorial board. The New York Times has consistently set the standard for journalistic excellence and has been a trusted source of news and information for decades.
44.
For most newspapers in medium-sized cities and small towns, their principle source for reporting national and world news is
Correct Answer
D. The Associated Press
Explanation
Most newspapers in medium-sized cities and small towns rely on the Associated Press as their primary source for reporting national and world news. The Associated Press is a renowned news agency that provides comprehensive and reliable news coverage from around the globe. Its extensive network of journalists and correspondents enables it to gather and distribute news quickly and efficiently. By relying on the Associated Press, newspapers can access a wide range of news stories and ensure that their readers are well-informed about current events both nationally and internationally.
45.
Which of the following statements is TRUE?
Correct Answer
A. As TV viewership has increased, newspaper readership has decreased.
Explanation
The correct answer is "As TV viewership has increased, newspaper readership has decreased." This statement implies a negative correlation between TV viewership and newspaper readership. It suggests that as more people watch TV, fewer people read newspapers.
46.
Which of the following is an example of a newsweekly?
Correct Answer
E. A and B
Explanation
The correct answer is "A and B". Both Newsweek and Time are examples of newsweeklies. Newsweek and Time are well-known publications that are released on a weekly basis and cover current news and events. The New York Times, on the other hand, is a daily newspaper and not a newsweekly. Therefore, the correct answer is A and B.
47.
Following the first Nixon-Kennedy presidential debate of 1960, opinion polls showed that
Correct Answer
D. Those who watched on television thought Kennedy had won, while those who listened on the radio thought Nixon won.
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that the perception of who won the debate differed depending on the medium through which people experienced it. People who watched the debate on television were able to see Kennedy's confident and charismatic demeanor, which likely influenced their perception that he had won. On the other hand, those who listened on the radio were not able to see Nixon's nervous appearance and sweaty complexion, and thus focused more on the content of the debate, leading them to believe that Nixon had won.
48.
Television became extremely important in political campaigns beginning in
Correct Answer
B. 1960.
Explanation
Television became extremely important in political campaigns beginning in 1960. This is because the 1960 presidential campaign between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon was the first to be televised extensively. The televised debates between the two candidates had a significant impact on the outcome of the election, as Kennedy appeared more confident and charismatic on TV compared to Nixon. This highlighted the power of television as a medium for reaching and influencing voters, leading to its increased importance in subsequent political campaigns.
49.
In 1934, Congress created the ________ to regulate the use of airways.
Correct Answer
A. Federal Communications Commission
Explanation
In 1934, Congress created the Federal Communications Commission to regulate the use of airways. The FCC is responsible for managing and licensing radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable communications in the United States. They ensure that these communication services are accessible to the public and operate in the public interest. The FCC also enforces regulations to prevent interference and promote fair competition in the telecommunications industry.
50.
What is the purpose of the FCC?
Correct Answer
E. A, B, and C.
Explanation
The purpose of the FCC is to prevent near monopolies of control over broadcast media by conducting periodic examinations of the goals and performance of stations as part of its licensing authority. Additionally, the FCC issues a number of fair treatment rules concerning access to the airwaves for officeholders and candidates. It also plays a role in determining whether or not broadcast media are providing accurate information to the American public. Therefore, options A, B, and C are all correct as they accurately describe the purpose of the FCC.